Perryton assistant principal might lose job over tiff

The job of one Perryton school administrator is in jeopardy because of a September altercation with a cafeteria employee over access to an ice and water dispenser.

"Both of these employees maintain that they were the victims," Perryton Superintendent Mike Jackson said. "From what I have determined, it was mutually combative."

No charges were pursued against either John Brosemer, assistant principal of Perryton Junior High School, nor cafeteria worker Debbie Lang, Jackson said. He did ask the Perryton police to conduct an independent investigation to ensure a fair evaluation.

Both employees could have taken steps to prevent the altercation from becoming physical, Jackson said.

"It took place in front of students," he said. "Therefore, there was cause to terminate both their employment."

The Perryton school board this week agreed to propose terminating Brosemer's contract, Jackson said. Under state law, the board cannot take immediate action to sever ties with an employee, but must give Brosemer the option of first requesting a hearing in front of an independent adjudicator.

Lang was not employed under a contract and Jackson fired her on Sept. 25. She has appealed the decision through the district's grievance process.

Last month, an argument allegedly arose between Brosemer and Lang over student access to an ice machine and refrigerated water machine. The argument grew physical, with pushing and shoving, and left one of them on the ground. The incident took place Sept. 16 during student lunch.